By Kevin Revolinski | Photo by Visit Middleton
UW ARBORETUM
Linger on the dock in Teal Pond and you’ll spot hiding waterfowl. On fallen branches, you’ll also see turtles lining up. Pass through the tunnel under the Beltline to reach the quieter Grady Tract, home to an oak savanna and a boardwalk that winds through the often-soggy Greene Prairie, where baby turtles sometimes make an appearance.
PHEASANT BRANCH CONSERVANCY
A trek up Frederick’s Hill for effigy mound viewing and a Capitol building vista is a must.
But once you reach this area, follow the grassy trail through the prairie to a viewing platform. Here, springs bubble up hypnotically, as if the sands are boiling.
INDIAN LAKE COUNTY PARK
While the historic St. Mary of the Oaks chapel on the hill and its sweeping overlook in this spot are don’t-miss sights, follow this trail along the highway side of the lake (along the park’s western boundary) through willows, cattails and cottonwoods. The soft breeze through the leaves is enough, but you can also catch great views of waterfowl.
